Playing with clay develops spatial intelligence.
Traditional norm-referenced tests such as the Stanford-Binet focused on rewarding a minority of test-takers as being "gifted" and "above average," while labeling the majority as "average," "below average" and "low." Then, in 1983, Dr. Howard Gardner's book "Frames of Mind" set forth his observations of seven multiple intelligences, with one being termed "spatial." These intelligences exist in varying degrees in all people, and the intelligences can develop. Spatial intelligence activities focus on three-dimensional processes.
Infants and Toddlers
Playing with blocks aids spatial intelligence.
Activities and toys for infants and toddlers can enhance their spatial intelligence. Provide baby toys such as rattles, cloth balls and stuffed animals to help develop the notion of three dimensions. Decorate the child's room with pictures and mobiles. When reading to very young children, let them choose from a selection of books with plenty of realistic-looking illustrations. Give toddlers three-dimensional toys such as blocks and stackable rings. Help the child and talk about what you are doing. Your attention and assistance provide confidence as the child develops spatial reasoning ability.
Preschool and Elementary
Kids use spatial intelligence in make-believe games.
Encourage youngsters in preschool and elementary years to use spacial reasoning. Plan activities with blocks, train tracks, Lincoln logs and Legos. Keep paper easily accessible, along with pencils, crayons, colored markers and paints. Stock modeling clay for three-dimensional art projects. During activities, allow the children to move about and take breaks from the tasks. The movement often aids the children as they engage in spatial games such as hide and seek. Set time aside for make-believe and imaginary worlds. These activities develop spatial intelligence.
Secondary School and College
Working with charts and graphs exercises spatial intelligence.
During the secondary and college years, you can find spatial intelligence opportunities in all subjects. In social studies and history, materials such as maps, globes, charts and graphs offer spatial access to knowledge. Enhance science with hands-on learning. Conducting experiments in chemistry, looking under microscopes at cells or looking through telescopes at the stars all contribute to spatial intelligence and awareness. Encourage participation in drama productions, dance and sports. Relate the studies by taking field trips. Ask for reports that join writing with visual representations.
Maturity
Walking is a way to develop and use spatial intelligence.
During the age of mature adulthood, develop and use spatial activities to remain active in the learning process. Find selections of crossword puzzles, word games and brain teasers. Consider learning a new language, and make plans to visit places where the language is spoken to put the knowledge to use. Learn about other cultures, such as their art, drama, sports, cooking and hobbies. Take time for spatial activities such as knitting, sewing and crocheting. Craft projects and building designs also tap into spacial intelligence. Take part in physical exercise such as walking, biking and swimming. Tell stories, including stories from family history and folk tales.
